Bhubaneswar, Sept 14: The chants of Lord Ganesha, colourful pandals and beautifully crafted idols have transformed Bhubaneswar into a vibrant canvas of devotion today. As devotees across the city celebrate Ganesh Puja with fervour, the artistry behind the idols has emerged as a celebration in itself. From the grandeur of Mumbai-style Ganesha to the distinctive craftsmanship of Kolkata's clay idols, this year's festive market offers a fascinating blend of tradition, artistry and regional influences.
This year, however, there is something particularly eye-catching in the city's idol market. Alongside the traditional idols crafted by Odisha's artisans, Ganesh idols inspired by the styles of Mumbai and Kolkata are attracting considerable attention among devotees and puja organisers.
From small idols meant for homes to towering creations designed for community celebrations, the choices are as varied as the celebrations themselves.
A Ganesha for Every Celebration
Walk through the city's busy markets and one can find idols in different shapes, sizes, colours and designs. While families often look for smaller idols that can easily be installed at home, large puja committees, schools and colleges are opting for grander and more elaborate creations.
Mumbai-style idols, known for their vibrant colours, elaborate ornaments and intricate detailing, have emerged as a major attraction. The idols are crafted with considerable attention to facial features, jewellery and decorative elements, giving them a distinctive festive appeal.
Idols arriving from Hyderabad and Pune are also finding their way into Bhubaneswar's markets. Smaller chinaware idols are available at relatively affordable prices, making them an option for households looking for compact idols.
But for those seeking something grand, the sky is practically the limit. Large idols meant for public celebrations can run into thousands of rupees, while some particularly elaborate creations cost several lakhs.
The Kolkata Connection
Another major attraction is the Kolkata-style clay idol.
Made using Ganga clay, these idols have their own distinctive appearance and craftsmanship. Available in different sizes, they cater to both household worshippers and larger puja organisers.
Prices can begin at around Rs 400, while larger idols can cost several thousand rupees. Some of the biggest and most elaborate idols arriving from Kolkata are reportedly priced in the lakhs.
For devotees, these idols are more than decorative pieces. Each one becomes the centrepiece of a celebration that brings together families, friends and communities.
Artisans Begin Work Months in Advance
Behind the colourful idols on display is a season of hard work for artisans.
For many idol makers, the craft is not simply a seasonal occupation but a family tradition passed down through generations. Artisans from outside Odisha begin arriving months before the festival, setting up temporary workshops and working long hours to complete orders on time.
The process requires patience and skill. From shaping the clay to creating the finer details and finally adding colours and ornaments, every stage contributes to the final appearance of the idol.
For some artisans, Ganesh Puja is only the beginning. Once the Ganesha idols are completed, they turn their attention towards preparations for the upcoming Durga Puja and Kali Puja.
More Than Just an Idol
The growing popularity of idols from different parts of the country also reflects how festivals are evolving in the city.
Bhubaneswar's Ganesh Puja celebrations increasingly bring together different artistic traditions—from the elaborate styles associated with Mumbai to the distinctive clay craftsmanship of Kolkata and the work of local Odisha artisans.
Meanwhile, markets are also witnessing increased demand for flowers, fruits, clothes and other puja essentials.
For now, the city is preparing to welcome the remover of obstacles. And as beautifully crafted Ganesha idols begin appearing at every corner, one thing is clear—the festive spirit has already arrived in Bhubaneswar.
